Fixed Gear Bikes & Single Speed Bikes for 2018 | Best MTB Gear

Fixie bikes are the trending talk in town. The fixie, short form of fixed-gear, are the trendiest machines every rider wants for themselves. Best fixed gear bikes are appealing and well built, and therefore may not need adjusting anytime soon before you fully tap in the advantages that come with their unmatched designs.

Some people argue as to whether fixed gear bikes provide an excellent biking experience or the bikes are merely a trend that a section of people over hype. For those people who are not familiar to fixed gear bicycle, you are at the right place.

This guide will answer all your questions regarding the fixed gear bikes. That will include their advantages and disadvantages, how they work, and how to cycle them. We are sure that by the time you will be done reading, you will have a better glimpse of what the bike will offer you. Perhaps the guide may rekindle a desire for you to be the owner one of these cool, elegant, efficient and cheap fixie bikes. Be assured of a fun-filled biking experience you have never experienced before.

The Best Fixie Bikes Reviews in 2018

#1. Pure Fix Original Fixed Gear Single Speed Fixie Bike

One has many reasons to love this bike. Looking at the many machines on the market that claim to be super, very few can ever come close to this bike’s standard.

The bike’s flip-flop hub enables the changing of the bikes mode from single speed to the fixed gear. The flip-flop’s positioning on the rear wheel makes the bicycle easy to manage.

The bikes’ components are built on the emphasis of superior quality. Ranging from the saddle to the foot strap, and the handlebar among others, you can be sure they reflect high-quality.

This bike’s urban geometrical frame deserves some attention. It gives the bike a distinct stylish appeal as you ride. At the same time, it guarantees you many years of prolonged use.

Finally, this bike can give you peace of mind. This is because the manufacturer gives you a lifetime warranty for the bike. This simply means that anytime the bike will require some repairs, the manufacturer will cover it; provided the warranty coverage terms are met and agreed on.

Pros:

The bikes’ high-tensile full Tig-wielded frame has been built to last

Lightweight so you can easily carry it upstairs, keeping it safe.

Has flip-flop rear wheel hub which allows the ease of changing from single-speed mode to fixed gear

The Pure Fix Original Fixed Gear Single Speed Fixie Bike is well known for its versatility, and also it is among the cheap fixed gear bikes. The bike is affordable, and its manufacturer is geared towards creating highly-affordable machines that are accessible to a broader audience.

#2. Vilano Fixed Gear Bike Fixie Single Speed Road Bike

It has a uniquely elegant design that you will fall in love with it immediately you see it. It has a simple look yet it will turn heads while you are on track. The tires have a solid, beautiful color which gives the bicycle a prominent personality.

The frame is composed of high-tensile stainless steel. It is one of the traditional materials found in the product category which is a popular choice for persons in search of a durable option. This steel bike is lightweight, unlike some other steel bicycles.

The quality of brakes is exceptional. They are designed in such a way that they provide you with an extraordinary stopping power that will guarantee your safety for a long time.

Looking for a machine that requires little maintenance, you don’t have to look anymore. You have a good reason to choose Vilano Fixed Gear Single Road Bike because it is cheap fixie bikes. You can be confident it will remain superior even after using it for long.

#3. Takara Sugiyama Flat Bar Fixie Bike

The Takara Sugiyama Flat Bar Fixie Bike has been featured in many bike reviews as a simple and cool bike. This machine is perfect for rides who like simplicity. A bike like this doesn’t cost a fortune.

This machine has excellent qualities; its frame is handcrafted from steel, making it a durable bike that can handle the rugged terrains in your neighborhood. Looking at it keenly, Takara heeded to the advice of the city commuters and rides who wanted a bicycle without derailleur; well the Sugiyama is perfect for this.

You can ride it as a fixed gear or even freewheel single speed mode. This you can do without making any adjustments to any components on the bike. The flat bar fixie bike makes use of a larger standard 700c x 32 tires which can tackle rough and hardy roads.

The Taraka Sugiyama is a beautiful unisex bicycle with a variety of color choices to please the riders. With the large 58cm and 54cm medium size available, you can choose from 3 attractive colors: Blue/Black, Yellow/Orange, and Grey/Blue

Pros:

Lacks a derailleur instead rider used flip flop hub

Has a strong hand crafted steel frame

It is strong, intended for riders and city commuters

Its Kenda tires withstand poor roads

Bike comes in beautiful, attractive colors for both men and women making them visible to others on the road

Takara Sugiyama Flat Bar Fixie Bike is an affordable and a cheap fixie bikes for city commuters and riders. The Sugiyama has no derailleur and is outfitted with a strong flip-flop hub. This means you can ride it in single speed; in standard freewheels mode or a fixed gear. This presents the urban rides with more options for their riding experience.

#4. 6KU Aluminum Fixed Gear Single-Speed Fixie Urban Track Bike

6KU Aluminum Fixed Gear Single-Speed Fixie Urban Track Bike is ranked among the top single speed bikes of this era. One thing that will impress you on this bike is the 28c tires. This feature demonstrates a superb capability to absorb high vibration leading to lots of comforts as you ride. It also designed to have a firm grip on the ground.

This bike has a cool look and is stylish. It comes in an array of bright colors which will make people notice you from afar. For riders who prefer to have a low profile, there are neutral and dull colors as well.

Another feature that makes the bike an excellent option is its 6061 double-butted frame. The frame is complemented with an alloy fork, which contributes to the durability and impressive performance of the bike. The machine is also easy to lubricate and you could re-lubricate it on your own.

Pros:

The bike comes at an excellent price giving you quality for your money

Looking at the above features, the 6KU Aluminum Fixed Gear Single-Speed Fixie Urban Track Bike stands out among the best bikes you can recommend for anyone, both a novice and a seasoned rider.

#5. Vilano Edge Fixed Gear Single Speed Bike

You cannot talk about top quality single speed bikes available on the market and not mention Vilano Edge Fixed Gear Single Speed Bike. This bike has a reputation for quality and beats other easily accessible machines at the entry level for riders regarding the feel and budget.

These classic-styled fixie bikes use high-tensile steel frame for its foundation. This results in a bit of weight, but does provide great momentum and stability as a trade-off.

This machine also comes with different color schemes. The colors vary from low to bright key to those that grab your attention.

The Vilano Edge has an urban saddle which has a wider coverage and has ample cushioning which provides a comfortable seat as you ride. With this, it encourages a slightly aggressive stance to the taped bull-horn handlebars. Its extended stem gives it an edge with improved handling.

It also has a rear flip-flop hub which allows for the fixed gear and freewheel cycling. It is part of a drive train which uses a cassette, and a forged alloy chain ring and long-lasting plastic pedals for a platform.

Pros:

Has alloy caliper brakes which are placed on both the rear and front wheels for greater stopping power

Overall, Vilano Edge Fixed Gear Single Speed Bike which merge style with excellent components and good quality frame material. Riders who love a comfortable and elegant fixie should give this awesome machine an extra look.

Single Speed Bikes

A single speed bike is a bike with one gear. It has a back and front brake like any other bicycle only that it has fewer gears. The single speed bikes are mainly associated with BMX and more often cruiser bikes. This machine has a flywheel so that the user can coast. The cog is not connected to the hub.

The single speed bikes are not suitable for racing. They sometimes house pannier mounts and mudguards making them most ideal for commuting.

These machines come with a double-sided flip-flop hub. Swapping in between the two, allows the user to choose between a fixed gear and a freewheeled single speed.

The Best Single Speed Bikes worth Considering

The Critical Cycles Harper Single-Speed Fixed Gear is a popular choice among the best single speed bikes within this product category. It is because it combines the best components of a fixie and a cruiser. It is sleek in style which is quite common for fixie bikes, and a cruiser that is well known for its versatility.

In terms of durability, this machine is crafted with a high-tensile strong material for the frame. It is made from the premium stainless steel. Apart from being durable, it can effectively absorb shock, thus providing the rider high level comfort.

Another note worthy feature is the bikes integration of the coaster braking system. This is the best and the simplest choice for brakes for a bike; it’s the reason it is rated highly as user-friendly machine. Topping it all, it delivers as the best in terms of safety; because of the machines stopping power.

Most importantly this fixie comes with excellent wheel. The wheels are made to withstand wear and tear and are also excellent to tackle different terrains. Besides, the wheels promote comfort for riders.

Pros:

Extremely affordable price

High-tensile steel built frames, making it sturdy

Available in several beautiful color combinations; you won’t miss your favorite

Comes with a flip flop hub for easy riding with fixed or a freewheel

Comes with all tools you need for maintaining your bike; time to save on maintenance, right?

The Critical Cycles Harper Single-Speed Fixed Gear Urban Commuter Bike is a high quality bike that combines a cruiser bikes feature as well as a fixie it is also among the cheap fixed gear bikes available. It is the best machine you can buy.

Riding the Critical Cycles Classic Fixed-Gear Single-Speed Track Bike means you are cycling for happiness. Ranking high in fixie bikes reviews, this machine stands out regarding style and performance.

The bullhorn has its benefits; every rider prefers one cycling style over the other. But many prefer the handlebars for its comfortable forward positioning. The structure of the bar allows the rider to use various hand positioning for all the kinds of cycling. For riders looking for a classic design or a champion on the racing track, this fixie is for you. The handlebars are lightweight and durable for reliable and easy riding.

This bike is composed of a flip-flop hub meaning you can ride it the way you like it. The fixed gear of the single speed has a tig-welded hand-made frame like some of its previous bikes. The bike is lightweight and durable.

The bike’s low profile VP platform and the BMX pedals are used together with protek crank, the sun run freewheel, the KMC chain and the Promax brakes. This machine has a 43mm star super deep V rim, and, the popular urban-ready Wanda tires. The bottom part comes sealed so that your bike is protected from dirt, moisture, and other subsequent problems.

Pros:

Has super deep V double-walled rims and stainless steel spokes, flip-flop hind wheel hub to allow changing gears from single-speed to the fixed gear with a lot of ease.

Has bullhorn handlebars plus soft Kraton rubber grip for comfort

Has an urban, comfortable saddle so you can ride even longer

Comes 85% assembled, comes with spare tools and equipment you need to maintain and built your bike. This will save you the assembly time plus maintenance costs.

Has water bottle mount

Cons:

Low Profile VP Platform BMX Pedals

It has amazing features, there is no doubt the bike sticks out among the leading single speed bikes riders can enjoy. We recommend it to any rider.

#3. Retrospec Mantra Fixie Bicycle with Sealed Bearing Hubs

The bike has an improved new fixed-gear bike design. It is capable of handling your city commuting experience every day. Its hand-built and tig-welded frame from steel is weather proof and has sealed bearing hub - all the needed prerequisites for city cycling.

The bike’s protected bearing hubs seals out the moisture and dirt, thus leading to less maintenance throughout your bikes lifetime. The fork and frame have a bar spin for clearance, and horizontal dropouts with no toe overlap.

The fixie has a standard flip flop hub that allows you to take control of your ride. With the easy flipping of the rear wheel, one can ride a fixed gear or a single-speed machine on freewheel.

The bike uses the Kenda Kwest commuter tires to counter the resistance, has a double-walled super deep V star rim, and uses the most reliable KMC chains. The fascinating bit it that this fixed-gear bike has a removable freestyle fixed-gear Velcro straps with an integrated seat post.

Are you looking for cheap fixed gear bikes? This may just be your right choice. Without causing a dent in your pocket, you can get this cool machine which is good for commuting and you can easily navigate through uneven roads.

#4. Vilano Rampage Fixed Gear Fixie Single Speed Road Bike

Vilano Rampage is among the most contemporary and single speed bikes with a stylish fixed gear; which is actually true. This machine rides and looks great. The bike is affordable and it costs below $300, which makes it one of the hottest deals you will ever find.

The Rampage has a high-tensile steel frame with a slightly raised rear giving it the classic urban look, and some shock absorption.

The bikes hybrid-style saddle gives it enough comfort and poisoning. This is furthered by the handlebar design which utilizes a riser style, plus an extended stem that angles upward.

The Rampage has full stopping power thanks to the brakes placed on both the rear and front wheels. The brakes are operated by strategically mounted brake levers on each side of the bicycles soft rubber grip.

Besides, a flip flop hub at the rear provides the bike with both freewheel riding and fixed gear. The machine is paired together with a 46T replaceable alloy crank set which is nimble and light. It also comes with a free platform set of pedals as well.

This machine is available in several color schemes; the people’s favorite includes the all black, the bold champagne and the orange combo which gives the bike a modern fixier appearance. Just like its other cousin, the Rampage can also be bought for under $300, which is good for a deal.

Vilano Rampage Fixed Gear Fixie Single Speed still stands out as one of the best cheap fixie bikes of all times. With an array of colors riders can choose a color that inspires them to ride.

#5. Pure Fix Glow in the Dark Fixed Gear Single Speed Fixie Bike

Looking to buy single speed bikes in town, why not settle for the Pure Fix Glow in the Dark Fixed Gear Single Speed Fixie Bike. This is a powerful machine. The bike comes with a stylish Vector saddle which contributes to the bicycles low weight, providing adequate coverage and padding which keeps things amazingly comfortable.

The bikes zoom riser handlebars puts the user in an ideal position. This encourages speed and agility and speed, but this does not happen at the expense of your shoulders and back.

It has a 44:16 gear ratio with a Lasco 3-piece, a sealed bearing crank plus the flip flop rear KT hub. The Flat Well go pedals come with cages to provide rider with perfect assistance while stopping without using the handbrake.

For riders who want a handbrake, the cheap fixie bike has the front caliper brakes which you can keep off or equip, depending on the person’s preferences. The versatile Kenda tires, paired with 500mm, deep-dish wheels encourage high speed and good handling together with rims that glow in the dark.

The glow in the dark model offers more fun and functionality. This machine is a fixie for those who would want to make themselves stand out in the crowd and all without paying much.

Pros:

This fixie is built with solar activated pain which glows for over an hour in the dark after daytime sun exposure. This enhances safety when riding at night

Built to last with high-tensile frame made from steel and tig-wielded machine

Pure Fix Glow in the Dark Fixed Gear Single Speed Fixie Bike is no doubt one of the cheap fixed gear bikes for riders who want to make a statement.

Focal Aspects You Should Consider When Purchasing a Fixed Gear Bike

Knowledge is power; the more informed you are before purchasing fixed gear bikes, the better your purchasing experience becomes and most importantly you will be able to influence your decisions right. Below are the most significant aspects you need to know before deciding to purchase one of the best fixie bicycles available.

Skill

In case you did not know, you need to have some skills that exceed your basic bike cycling ability you had learned before. Most people are used to riding a free-wheel as opposed to fixed gear bikes. What you should understand is that the drivetrain operation changes things immediately.

With fixed gears, the pedals are engaged all the times, and this affects how first you accelerate or slow down. It, in turn, affects the way you navigate the bicycle and achieve your pedaling efficiency. In the event you are a novice with regards to your biking skills, you will take some time while getting used to.

This is true if you decide to opt for the brakeless mode. If you have never ridden a brakeless fixed gear bike, then you will need to do some adjustments and reconfiguring to your cycling habits. For that matter, it is best to choose a machine with brakes to counter an emergency as you learn to stop by using other means.

Purpose

Fixed gear bicycles are popular for urban transport and commuting in dense places, but their uses can span beyond that. It is essential to identify the primary use and purpose of your fixie because with this in mind your selecting the best machine for the intended purpose will be easy.

If you commute most of the time, then you need a bike that is fast, light and controlled. It is essential you look for models that weigh around 20-22 pounds; the machine should possess a mid-range gear ratio, and most importantly, include a handbrake.

For the people looking to cycle a fixie casually in the neighborhood or nearby, and prefer to have fun and a little style, well the brakeless models would be great. There are many elegant fixies with better designs, and even cooler aesthetic available on the market, riding these machines will get you more attention.

For riders whose intend to use the fixed gear bikes for fitness and training; you will need to get a model which emphasizes performance and comfort. The machine will have optimized drivetrain fixtures, be lightweight and maybe even better the clip-less pedals or hostlers. In short, purpose influences reason; think about it.

Size

Your fixed gear bike’s size is as important as any other. These machines, in general, use the road bicycle frame models plus a flat top tube. In that case, you have to mind about the inseam clearance.

If you choose a bike that is either too small or too big, the quality of your ride will be affected. Your pedaling efficiency and steering will be affected as well. The extra energy you need for fixed gears provides an added emphasis on purchasing the correct size as well.

The advantage is that majority of the fixed gear bicycles come in multiple sizes, small, medium and large and are available. Sometimes, you can find a machine in a particular size which is measured in inches. Knowing this, you have an opportunity to purchase a bike that suits your physique.

Safety

Safety should come first before anything else. Bikes are good, but they can also cause danger to an individual. Before you choose a particular bike, you must know the safety features the bicycle has. Ensure that you get the correct biking gear and any information before purchasing your machine. You might as well learn basic first aid tips to equip yourself in the event of an accident.

Budget

One important thing you should be thinking about is how much money you have set aside and how much you’re willing to spend. With a clear budget in mind, it will be easier to narrow down the possibilities available in the market. Make sure you stick to the budget you had earlier identified. Look at several options and exert effort to find the correct product for the right price. On the other hand, it is also important to note that you should not stick to a single product only because you feel it is cheap. Remember at the end of the day, quality matters and should be upheld above price.

Bike Components

The bike composition is very crucial. You need to know the materials used in making the bicycle or rather the bike ingredients. These components are what give the machine its properties. Whether the bike will be long lasting or lightweight or not depends on the metals used to make it. It is significant for a buyer to know the composition of the machine before making a move to buy it.

What is the Difference between a Fixed Gear and Single Speed Bike?

A fixed gear just like the name implies uses a gear that is ‘fixed’ so that it does not allow the rear wheel to move freely. This results in a bicycle with one speed, where the user cannot coast the pedals in a stationary mode. A fixed gear bike relies on its drivetrain, mechanism to propel the bicycle.

This means that when the rear wheel moves the pedals turn. This occurs by threading or mounting the rear cog directly to the rear hub. When the hub turns, the chaining is engaged; as a result, it makes the front crack wheel to be engaged, turning the pedals.

If a user is coasting and not pedaling actively, as long as the bike is moving, the pedals will be moving as well. It is the opposite of a freewheel design which is normally found on mountain and road bikes.

This results to a few implications. It means that the rider is always engaged with the bicycle as long as it is moving. That means you can only work with one gear at a time. Which is more efficient than what is found on a BMX bike?

The machine will ride and feel differently than the freewheel version. It puts you in tune with the track. The fixed gear’s drive-train also utilizes a different stopping mechanism for riders who do not want to use the handbrakes.

Choosing a Gear for Your Single Speed or Fixed Gear Bike

Since your bike has got only one gear, it is important you make sure it is the right one. If you put too much resistance, you will end up stopping at every hill, and you if choose too little, you will have your legs spinning.

The gears are created by the ratio between the rear and front chainring, and they are measured in inches. An ideal gear will vary between riders. Something ranging from 65 to 75 inches or thereabouts will be right for commuters. The track riders will go for a higher level gear, because of the hilly pathways involved.

Things to Remember When Riding Fixed Gear

Riding your fixie can be fun, but it won’t be so much fun if you expose yourself to danger. You have to work out on a few things to enjoy your machine but at the same time minding your safety.

Practice on less busy and quiet roads if it is your first time cycling a fixed gear bike, or even better take your velodrome. The gadget is usually filled with beginner classes; they also have great sense of community meant for fixed gear riders.

Wear a helmet; this goes for everyone. It is possible to get injured when wearing a helmet but better be safe than sorry. You should do this until when you are sure of what you are doing.

Both fixed gear and single speed bikes use nuts to secure the wheels. Unlike other road bikes, and rapid release skewers you may be required to carry a small wrench to be able to fix a puncture.

Stick to roads with bike lanes and keep off bus lanes at all costs.

If you intend to ride on the road, ensure you have working front brake.

Lastly, if you are riding a fixed gear bike, do not forget to pedal, because you may find your bike doing what you did not instruct it to.

Handy Tips to Identify the Best Fixed Gear Bikes

Just because the fixed gear bike is the simplest of bicycles does not mean that buying one is simple. Far from it, purchasing a fixed gear bike is like buying any other bicycle. There are plenty of questions that need answers before you swipe their debit cards. Below are important hand tips to help you identify the best cheap fixed gear bikes.

Frame material

To determine the quality of a bike, it is important to have a look at the materials that have been used. A higher quality of material will inevitably impacts the price and more so its performance. Go for a machine with the excellent quality material because the frame is the backbone of a bicycle. Some materials to consider include, aluminum, steel, titanium, and carbon fiber, these materials are strong and light in weight. Remember, a right frame should serve you forever.

Bike components

Get a bike whose spares can be found easily; this is because bike parts are prone to wear and tear and they will need to be replaced. An essential part to consider when checking out first is the wheel set. As long as the hub is sealed, the hoops are an alloy that is good enough. The pedals and saddles can be replaced with time.

Size

Before buying a fixie bike, first of all, determine the size that is right for you. For that matter, consider your height and weight. More often, the size is determined by how big the wheels are. More importantly, this will help if the bike comes with an adjustable seat, because it will allow it to fit the height of any user correctly, or whatever the user deems comfortable.

Budget

Think about how much you are willing to spend on a quality bike. Having a budget in mind will enable you to work within the possibilities available on the market. It is important to stick to a budget you had planned for. However spending a little more to get a machine that would serve you for a long time would not hurt. Think about it.

Final verdict

After going through this detailed buying guide, we hope you are now familiar with the latest 10 of the best fixed gear bikes available on the market. We also hope that the guide has made it easier for you to decide to get the best option for a cool fixie of your choice. If there is one essential takeaway, it would be that you should not just peg your decision on price alone. Rather consider all the crucial factors we have laid down for you. In the event you settle on one, please feel free to give us your views about your experiences with the bike on our fixie bikes reviews column.

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